The coldest months of the year are here, and you’re probably wondering what to stock up on for winter storms.
If you’re like many homeowners who live in areas prone to winter storms, then you may already be stocking up on emergency supplies.
I’m sure you are already preparing for the storm that’s about to hit.
But if you are out of ideas and below we’ve listed out some basic provisions that every well-fortified home should have on hand.
With them, you’d be able to handle a sudden winter storm.
Some things to stock up on before a blizzard hits are: drinking water, batteries and fuel, towels, blankets, warm clothes, Canned foods, and nonperishable food, and, first aid are essential as well.
Why Should You Stock Up For Winter Storm?
It is a good idea to stock up for a winter storm because you never know how long the storm will last or how severe it will be.
If you are stuck at home for an extended period of time due to heavy snow or other winter weather, having a supply of essential items on hand can help you and your family stay safe and comfortable.
This can include non-perishable food, water, medication, warm clothing and blankets, and other essential items.
By stocking up in advance, you can avoid the last-minute rush to the store when a storm is approaching, and ensure that you have everything you need to weather the storm.
Some reasons to stock up for a winter storm include:
To Avoid Last-minute Trips To The Store
When a storm is approaching, stores can become crowded and chaotic, making it difficult to find the items you need.
Stocking up in advance can help you avoid this rush and ensure that you have everything you need without having to brave the crowds.
To Ensure That You Have Enough Food & Water
During a winter storm, you may be stuck at home for an extended period of time. Having a supply of non-perishable food and water on hand can help you and your family stay nourished and hydrated.
To Have Essential Items On Hand
In addition to food and water, there are many other items that can be helpful to have on hand during a winter storm.
This can include medication, warm clothing and blankets, flashlights and batteries, and other essential items.
To Prepare For Power Outages
Winter storms can sometimes cause power outages, which can be dangerous if you are not prepared.
Having a supply of warm clothing and blankets, as well as a backup source of heat such as a fireplace or wood stove, can help you stay warm and safe in the event of a power outage.
To Protect Your Home
Stocking up on items such as sand and salt can help you protect your home and property from the effects of a winter storm.
Sand can help provide traction on slippery surfaces, while salt can help melt ice and snow, making it safer to walk on sidewalks and driveways.
To Stay Comfortable
Winter storms can be cold and uncomfortable, especially if you’re without power or heat.
By preparing ahead of time, you can make sure you have the supplies you need to stay warm and comfortable during the storm.
In summary, preparing for winter storms is important because it can help keep you and your family safe, avoid being stranded, prevent damage to your home, and ensure that you stay comfortable during the storm.
It’s always better to be prepared than to be caught off guard.
What To Stock Up On For Winter Storms
It’s the time of year when you’re probably thinking about stocking up on supplies for winter storms.
But there are more items than you might think to stock up on, and not just for snowstorms.
Here’s a list of some things that you should have on hand, along with ways to store them, so they aren’t wasted during a power outage:
Item #1: Water
You’ll want at least two gallons of water per person in your home and family, plus plenty of water for pets, too.
If you live in an area prone to flooding, consider storing up extra water so that it’s there if there’s a major storm or hurricane (which is expected this year).
Item #2: Food
Stock up on non-perishable food items like canned foods, and fruits in case power goes out during a storm and all other means of communication get disrupted.
You should also keep dry beans, rice, or pasta in your pantry in case of a power outage too.
Tip: Don't forget about shelf-stable milk and juice, those are great options too.
Item #3: Toiletries
Keep toilet paper, feminine products, baby wipes, and other necessities on hand so you don’t have to run out to the store when the lights go out!
And keep prescription medications in case it gets really bad, and access isn’t possible.
Item #4: Entertainment
If you have kids at home, make sure to have plenty of batteries for their toys and games, those things can really eat up power!
And don’t forget about charging devices like cell phones and laptops so you can keep in touch with family members when the power goes out.
Item #5: Extra Batteries
Buy a few sets of extra batteries for your flashlights, radios, and other electronic devices, so you don’t have to worry about running out of power when disaster strikes.
Item #6: First Aid Kit
First aid kit with bandages, gauze, sanitary supplies, hydrogen peroxide, oral rehydration salts, hand warmers, and other items needed to treat minor injuries.
Injuries may occur during the winter storm event period such as cuts and scrapes from falling trees or branches etc.
Item #7: Cash Or Gold Coins
If ATMs aren’t working after an outage (or if banks are closed), having cash on hand is essential.
Item #8: Flashlights
A flashlight is one of the most important items you can have on hand during a power outage.
This is because it allows you to see what’s going on around you, even at night or when light sources go out.
Item #9: Medication
Keep medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil ), aspirin, eye drops, and cough medicine handy.
You should also keep your list of medications handy if you need to make a trip to the pharmacy during an emergency.
Item #10: Coffee
Coffee is a great way to stay warm and caffeinated during winter storms. It’s also a great way to get out of bed if you need some extra motivation.
If you want something different, try making your coffee with these recipes for coffee made at home.
Item #11: Mug Warmer
A mug warmer is perfect for keeping your mugs warm while you’re waiting for the electricity to come back on.
You can also use it as an emergency heater if there’s no other source of heat available such as a fireplace or space heater.
We recommend getting one that has its thermostat so that you can set it at the temperature that works best for your needs.
Item #12: Food Storage Containers
Maintaining food storage containers in addition to the emergency kit above is important.
You’d definitely need them if your home loses power due to a severe winter storm event.
Don’t you know that your home could have no electricity at all due to extreme weather conditions during winter?
These conditions could include such as fallen trees blocking roads resulting in road closures that prevent access into town for example.
Tip: Personal care items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, etc, to help prevent illnesses due to cold weather conditions (a new toothbrush should be used each time).
Winter Storm Food Checklist
It’s a good idea to store non-perishable food items in your pantry or other designated storage area before a winter storm hits.
This will ensure that you have enough food to last for a few days in case of a power outage or other emergency.
Non-perishable items include canned goods, dried goods, and other items that do not require refrigeration.
It’s also a good idea to have a manual can opener and other tools on hand in case the power goes out.
The following is a list of what to buy before a snowstorm:
- Drinking water, about a 3-day supply
- Dried fruit
- Canned goods,
- Peanut butter, or your favorite nut butter
- Anything jarred such as jellies, meats, and pickles
- Favorite snacks such as popcorn and chips
- Coffee, tea, and hot cocoa mix (and maybe some marshmallows)
- Shelf-stable juice
- Energy bars
- English muffins, bread, or bagels
- Pet food and treats.
Tips To Prepare Your House For Winter
Winter can be a tough time for anyone. The cold weather, snow, and ice are enough to cause any homeowner some anxiety.
But if you prepare your home properly, winter can be a much easier season to get through.
Here are some tips on how to prepare your house for winter:
- Check your furnace filter
- Check the Weatherstripping on doors and windows
- Check your heating system
- Get rid of drafts in your home
- Insulate your Attic.
Tip: Buy some firewood now, if possible, make sure all vents on your home are closed and sealed, and make sure to check the attic insulation in case there are any gaps or holes where heat can escape.
Conclusion
As the weather gets colder, it’s important to consider what you will stock up on for emergencies. By being prepared, you’ll be able to have a better attitude toward the situation.
Hopefully, these suggestions will help you prepare for any inclement weather that may come your way if you are wondering what to stock up on for winter storms.
By following the tips above, you’ll have the right mindset to stay safe during the harsh winter storm.
